How Long Does It Take to Get Dentures? A Complete Guide

Tagged , ,

Getting dentures is important for needing teeth replacement due to missing teeth, aging, or other dental issues. However, many people have one common question: “How long does it take to get dentures?” The answer varies depending on individual circumstances, the type of dentures you need, and your overall oral health.

In this blog, we’ll explain the process of getting dentures, from initial consultation to the final fitting appointment, and give you an idea of what to expect along the way. Whether you’re getting partial dentures, complete dentures, or temporary dentures, we will walk you through the entire process, explaining each stage and how long it typically takes to get dentures that fit comfortably and provide a new, functional smile.

Types of Dentures

teeth replacement needsBefore delving into the time it takes to get dentures, it’s important to understand the different types available:

  • Complete Dentures: These are full sets of false teeth used when all the natural teeth are missing in the upper or lower jaw. They’re designed to restore the bite and appearance of the mouth.
  • Partial Dentures: These are used when some of the remaining teeth are still intact, and they fill the gaps created by missing teeth. Partial dentures are custom-made to fit around your remaining teeth.
  • Immediate Dentures: These are placed in your mouth immediately after tooth extractions. They are designed as a temporary solution until your gums heal and permanent dentures can be made.
  • Permanent Dentures: These are designed for long-term use and are custom-made to fit your mouth once your gums fully heal from any extractions or surgery.

The Process of Getting Dentures

The process of getting dentures involves several key steps. While the exact time frame can vary, the general process usually takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on your needs and circumstances. Let’s walk through each stage:

1. Initial Consultation

The first step in getting dentures is the initial consultation with your dentist. During this visit, your dentist will evaluate your oral health, take a thorough medical history, and discuss the type of dentures best suited to your needs. If you have missing teeth or gum disease, your dentist may recommend a treatment plan to ensure your gums and remaining teeth are in good condition before proceeding with dentures.

If tooth extractions are necessary, your dentist will discuss the dental surgery options and timeline. Initial consultation appointments usually take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your situation.

2. Tooth Extractions and Healing

If your natural teeth are still in place, and tooth extractions are required before getting dentures, this step can add time to the overall process. Depending on how many teeth need to be removed, the extraction process can take anywhere from a single appointment for multiple teeth to several appointments for more complex cases.

After the teeth are removed, the gum tissue takes time to heal. Typically, it takes several weeks to heal fully, but it can take a few months for the gums to heal completely and settle into their final shape. If you’re getting immediate dentures, these can be placed right after your teeth are extracted to help you adjust while your gums heal.

3. Impression Taking

Once your gums have healed sufficiently, the next step is to take an impression of your mouth. This is a critical step to ensure the dentures will fit properly. Your dentist will take precise measurements and molds of your gums and jaw to create a wax model of your new dentures.

The impression-taking process can be done during one appointment, and the dental lab will use these impressions to start crafting your dentures. If you get partial dentures, the lab will ensure they fit around your remaining teeth and provide a natural bite.

4. Wax Models and Try-Ins

After the dental laboratory has received the molds, they will create a wax model of your dentures. This model will allow you and your dentist to assess how the dentures fit and ensure they match the shape of your mouth. You will be asked to try them on during a fitting appointment to ensure proper alignment, comfort, and bite. This is also when you can provide feedback on how the dentures feel.

The wax model fitting typically takes one or two appointments. During these visits, your dentist may make necessary adjustments to ensure the dentures fit comfortably in your mouth. The model allows your dentist to adjust the dentures before they are finalized, ensuring they work well for your bite and appearance.

5. Final Denture Fitting

Once the wax models are adjusted and you’re happy with the fit and appearance, the dental lab will create the final dentures. This step involves turning the wax model into permanent dentures made from durable, natural-looking materials. Depending on the complexity, the dental lab can take a few weeks to finish crafting your final dentures.

During the final fitting appointment, your dentist will ensure that the dentures fit perfectly and that you can chew comfortably. The dentures may need some final adjustments to align with your natural bite. It’s common for dentures to feel tight or awkward at first, but your dentist will help ensure they are comfortable and provide the best fit.

6. Post-Fitting Care and Adjustments

Once your dentures are in place, you may experience discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the new teeth. This is completely normal and is part of the denture process. Your dentist will provide guidance on how to care for your new dentures, including how to clean them and manage any minor irritation or soreness.

Temporary dentures or adjustments may be necessary during the initial period, particularly if your gums are still healing. In the first few weeks after getting dentures, it’s important to continue visiting your dentist for any follow-up appointments to ensure the dentures fit correctly and comfortably.

7. Ongoing Adjustments and Maintenance

After you’ve received your permanent dentures, they may still require some adjustments over time, especially as your gums continue to settle and change shape. Over time, dentures may need to be relined or remade to ensure they continue to fit well. This is a normal part of the denture care routine.

Regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and maintenance are essential for oral health and to ensure your dentures stay comfortable.

How Long Does It Take to Get Dentures?

dental implantsSo, how long does it take to get dentures? The entire process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on several factors, including the type of dentures, your healing time, and the complexity of your case. Generally, the full denture process involves the following timeline:

  • Initial Consultation: 1 visit (30-60 minutes)
  • Tooth Extractions (if needed): 1 or more appointments (several days to weeks for healing)
  • Impression Taking: 1 visit (1 hour)
  • Wax Model Try-Ins: 1-2 visits (each about 1 hour)
  • Final Denture Fitting: 1 visit (about 1 hour)
  • Adjustment Period: 1-2 months of follow-up visits

For immediate dentures, you can begin wearing temporary dentures right after your tooth extractions, but these will need to be replaced with permanent dentures once your gums have healed, which could take a few months.

Conclusion

Getting dentures is a multi-step process that can take several weeks to a few months, depending on your needs and oral health condition. From tooth extractions to impression taking, wax models, and final fittings, the process involves a series of appointments to ensure that your dentures fit properly and comfortably.

Whether you are getting partial, complete, or immediate dentures, your dentist will guide you through each step and make necessary adjustments to ensure your new dentures provide a perfect fit. The time it takes to get dentures can vary, but with proper care and attention, they will provide a natural and functional solution for missing teeth. If you’re considering getting dentures, speak with your dentist to determine the best plan for your needs and how long it will take to get your new smile.

References

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-health-dentures

https://www.polident.com/en-nz/denture-journey/getting-dentures/what-to-expect-when-getting-your-first-denture/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dentures/